The LawState law and Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department regulations prohibit smoking in indoor public places and places of employment with "any kid of lighted pipe, cigar, cigarette, hookah, or any other lighted smoking equipment" including but not limited to cigarettes, cigars, hookah shisha, and marijuana.

Additionally, local regulations protect the public and employees from exposure to secondhand vapor or aerosol.

Laws that project Pierce County residents, including workers in their places of employment include:

Learn more information about e-cigarette regulations in Pierce County.

EnforcementThe Health Department has the authority to enforce state and local regulations that prohibit smoking and vaping in public places and places of employment. Businesses that allow smoking and vaping are subject to civil penalties, re-inspection fees, and may face additional legal action. Enforcement measures are described in The Health Department’s Smoking in Public Places regulations.

Business licenses will not be issued by Pierce County or its cities and towns for any types of smoking lounges or vaping lounges

Because of funding cuts, we are no longer able to respond to all complaints of smoking in public places. Businesses that allow smoking are still subject to civil penalties, re-inspection fees and may face additional legal action.

For "No Smoking" signs, information, questions or complaints about smoking or vaping in public places and worksites, call (253) 798-6400.

For specific questions regarding hookah or marijuana use in Pierce County as they relate to smoking in public places or worksites, contact Peter Anderson (253) 442-0352 or panderson@tpchd.org

Smoke-Free Housing and Outdoor EnvironmentsLearn about smoke-free housing efforts in Pierce County and apartment complexes that prohibit smoking.